Are you renovating your loft? We advise on which roof windows to choose
The secret to a successful loft is not just in the elegant flooring, stylish furniture or decorative finish of exposed beams. In order to fully enjoy the arrangement of your dreams, you need solid window joinery.
It is the appropriately selected roof windows that will ensure the optimum amount of natural light in the interior and the highest comfort on the top floor. What roof window solutions does the market offer today and what should be considered when choosing them?
Wood or PVC? Choice of frame material
Roof windows are mainly divided into frame and sash materials. The choice should be dictated not only by aesthetics, but above all by the purpose of the room.
Wooden windows (e.g. the 3-pane OKPOL ISOV I22 model): If you prefer to surround yourself with natural materials in your home, the highly aesthetic wooden windows are ideal (especially in bedrooms and living rooms). Thanks to the low heat transfer coefficient (for the ISOV I22 model it is only Uw = 1.06 W/m²K) and minimal thermal expansion, the glulam profiles help keep the attic pleasantly warm in winter and comfortably cool in summer. When choosing such joinery, it is always a good idea to rely on proven manufacturers who guarantee the highest quality of the raw material.
PVC roof windows (e.g. the energy-efficient OKPOL IGOV N22 model): They do not require special care, which makes them an excellent choice for rooms with increased humidity, such as kitchens and bathrooms in the attic. They are constructed from resistant multi-chambered profiles. Importantly, models such as IGOV N22 are additionally filled with polyurethane foam to achieve a sensational heat transfer coefficient of Uw = 0.83 W/m²K.
Glazing packets - benefits of modern technology
The glazing of modern roof windows uses packages with varying thermal and protective properties. The key heat transfer coefficient is influenced primarily by the number of panes and the type of noble gas in the space between the panes.
It is worth noting the 3-pane packages in OKPOL windows, which have as many as two inter-pane frames. Each package is worth analysing in terms of additional coatings and functionality:
Tempered outer pane: This is a standard that effectively protects the window against mechanical damage, e.g.. hail.
Low emissivity coating: Allows greater solar gain while reducing heat loss from inside the house.
Self-cleaning and noise-reducing coating: Ideal for properties located near busy roads and traffic routes.
Anti-scratch coating: An element extremely important in energy-efficient triple-glazed windows. As such windows allow minimal heat to pass to the outside, the outer pane of glass remains cool, which can cause condensation. The anti-scratch coating effectively eliminates the 'foggy window' effect.
Method of opening - select a window to suit the layout of the loft
The selection of a roof window should also be based on its functionality and preferred method of opening.
Pivot windows: This is the most versatile solution. The hinge located in the middle of the sash length allows the sash to rotate as much as 180°. This provides easy access to the outer pane, making cleaning a breeze without having to lean out onto the roof.
Tilt and slide windows: This is an innovative proposition from the OKPOL brand, which offers two independent opening functions. The tilt-slide function allows smooth sash adjustment (0-30°) and maximum opening of up to 62°. In no position does the window take up any space inside the room, giving the user full freedom of movement.
The sliding function, on the other hand, makes it easy to turn the glass towards the interior, allowing it to be cleaned quickly and safely.
- Remote-controlled windows (OKPOL ISC and IGCV models): If your loft is high and the windows will be installed out of direct reach of your hands, it is worth opting for electric joinery. The ISC (timber) and IGCV (PVC) models have excellent thermal insulation parameters and their integrated drive allows for convenient control from the sofa.
Installation innovation: windows integrated with EPDM flashing
A major innovation on the market is windows integrated with EPDM flashings. This is a solution that is definitely worth looking into. Such an innovative system allows investors and roofing teams to save not only the time necessary for installation, but also reduces the final price of the whole set.
👉 _Check out the modern window integrated with EPDM flashing in OKPOL's offer
Do you have any questions about choosing windows for your loft? If you have any doubts, contact our Technical Advisor, who will help you match the perfect solution to your project and present the specifications of current models!